Under the title ‘A Meeting of the Minds – Collective’, the US capital’s Destination Marketing Organisation (DMO) Destination DC brought together thinkers from the US, Canada and Europe for a 4-day experience. Meeting planners, association executives and members of the press received information on what’s new (and perhaps unknown) in DC and exchanged thoughts on how to advance the city further in the meetings industry.
The agenda, organised around the vibrant campaign ‘There’s Only One DC’, offered a clear insight into why the city stands out in a competitive global landscape for meeting planners. As Elliott L. Ferguson, President and CEO of Destination DC (DDC) said during their annual Marketing Outlook Meeting, “We are the capital of the United States of America. It is our obligation to offer the best.”
Sustainability at the Core of DC
In fact, more than 500 industry leaders and professionals attended this year’s presentation featuring DC’s rise not only in business visitors but also in sustainability initiatives. With more LEED-certified buildings than any other city in the U.S., more than 50 associations, policy groups and advocacy organisations in the metro area focused on sustainability, and a growing fleet of electric buses and bike paths (to name just a few), the city is well on its way to meet its target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 50% by 2032 and to become carbon neutral by 2050.
Such green initiatives, paired with youth programs, enhanced transportation within the city and smart development of new residential areas have attracted more people and locally based companies into the capital. “We are working towards making DC a city for all, where residents can happily work, live and have fun,” Sybongile Cook, Director of Destination Development, Government of the District of Columbia told our group.
“We are the capital of the United States of America. It is our obligation to offer the best.”
Elliott L. Ferguson, President and CEO of Destination DC
A City of Passion, Culture, & Social Awareness
Beyond its political stature, Washington, DC has also evolved as a culturally vibrant hub, making it a more attractive business events destination. One of the standout features of the agenda was the focus on Washington’s growing arts scene. The city’s cultural institutions are not limited to its renowned Smithsonian museums; new developments, local galleries, and public art projects are all contributing to an enriched cultural landscape.
In an interactive discussion with DC based artists Pum Lefebure, Co-founder and Chief Creative Officer, Design Army and Halim Flowers, internationally renowned artist, justice reform activist, Georgetown University fellow, and entrepreneur (among others), it became clear that creativity is overflowing the city. As far as meetings go, thinking outside the box is key, according to Maggie O’Neill, artist, designer, entrepreneur and activist. “Utilise the city’s assets to your advantage when designing a meeting. Create outdoor experiences that delegates will not forget,” she said.
What truly sets Washington, DC apart is the blend of political, cultural, and social forces that define the city. Unlike many other meeting destinations, DC offers the chance to be at the crossroads of governmental influence and social movements. A visit at the Gallaudet University and an open discussion on The Future of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) showed the social awareness aspect of the community.
Jeremy L. Brunson, Ph.D., Interim Chief Diversity Officer, Division of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusive Excellence (DEDI) at Gallaudet University emphasised that DEI goes beyond race. “In an ideal world, there should not be any DEI initiatives because everyone naturally accepts everyone else and is willing to accommodate all diversity.” The university is the world’s premier higher education institution serving deaf and hard of hearing people in a bilingual learning environment, featuring ASL and English.
DC’s social sustainability also includes socially responsible businesses. Stops at Shop Made DC and Colada Shop were enough to paint the picture of owners who repurpose and reuse materials, keep traditions alive through cooking and become an inspiration for other social projects that engage the local community (an asset the meetings industry can harness during an event).
From my experience, there truly is ‘Only One DC’, where government, passion, sustainability and creativity blend to create a dynamic environment for impactful events. As Melissa A. Riley, SVP Convention Sales and Services at Destination DC, says: “Washington, DC is more than just a destination for meetings; it’s the heartbeat of innovation and influence. There’s only one DC that combines rich history with a vibrant pulse of intellectual capital, offering authentic inspiration for every event. As a historic center for change and impact, this city provides not just a venue, but a stage where ideas flourish and meaningful connections are made. Our diverse culture and unmatched access to thought leaders make DC the ideal backdrop for transformative meetings.”